World Cup 2010 FANS!

This World Cup was supposed to provide the stage for the greatest players on earth to shine.

But following Argentina’s stunning 4-0 defeat by Germany on Saturday, the big five of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Kaka and Didier Drogba have all returned home from South Africa earlier than expected.
Between them, just two managed to get on the scoresheet – Drogba and Ronaldo. All showed flashes of brilliance but many observers have been left scratching their heads as to why they were unable to deliver in the finals.

“I may leave tomorrow but I want these boys to go on,” said Maradona, who added that the 4-0 defeat was the toughest moment in his life, which for a man who spent six days in a critical condition with heart and lung problems six years ago, is some statement.

But this tournament has shown time and again that it has no respect for reputations. If Maradona moves another character will emerge to fill the gap.

And while many of the names lighting up the 2010 finals may not be giants of the game, they are proof of the competition’s ever-evolving ability to surprise and delight.